Exploring how social connections and mindfulness can help pregnant women with depression
Official title: Biobehavioral perspectives on social connectedness and the âMindful Momsâ intervention for marginalized pregnant women with depression
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11042881 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a program called 'Mindful Moms' that helps pregnant women who are feeling down by bringing them together for fun activities like prenatal yoga and supportive conversations, making it easier for them to connect with others and feel better without relying on medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | May 6, 2021 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $488,508 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NR020220-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042881 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are marginalized pregnant women who are experiencing clinically significant depressive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not experience depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the 'Mindful Moms' intervention, which aims to support marginalized pregnant women experiencing depression by enhancing their social connectedness. The program includes group-based mindful physical activities, such as prenatal yoga, combined with discussions on managing depressive symptoms. By focusing on non-pharmacological approaches, the research seeks to provide accessible and effective support for women who may be hesitant to use traditional treatments due to stigma or side effects. The study builds on preliminary findings that suggest social connections can significantly impact mental health during pregnancy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safe and effective intervention for pregnant women with depression, improving their mental health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary evidence from previous studies indicates that similar approaches focusing on social connectedness and mindfulness have shown promise in improving mental health outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kinser, Patricia Anne — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Kinser, Patricia Anne
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.